Befriending Works: building resilience in local communities

12/01/11

This report provides an overview of how befriending can contribute to improving the health and well-being outcomes of vulnerable people at risk of social isolation or exclusion from mainstream society.

It aims to inform commissioners, practitioners and clinicians working in the health and social care system, including acute, primary, mental health and community NHS services, NHS Foundation Trusts, local authorities and partner organisations in the voluntary, community and wider third sector, about how befriending is being delivered in local communities to improve health outcomes, reduce social isolation and contribute to wider local priorities.